At a distance of 265 km from Bangalore, 117 km from Mysore, 132 km from Mangalore, 322 km from Coimbatore & 362 km from Kochi, Coorg or Kodagu is a district in Karnataka and Madikeri is the district headquarters. At an altitude of 1525 meters on Western Ghats, it is also known as the Scotland of India. Coorg is the most famous hill stations in Karnataka and among the best hill stations near Bangalore. It is also one of the top destinations of Karnataka Tourism.

According to Puranas, Kodava is the redefined name of Krodhadesa meaning Land of Anger, said to have been inhabited by the Kodava tribe. Some historians believe that it is named after the River Cauvery. Coorg was under the Gangas rule during 9th and 10th centuries and Cholas in the 11th century followed by Hoysalas. Later Coorg was relatively independent under Haleri Rajas until British occupied the region in 1834. Coorg was a separate state before its merger with Karnataka in the year 1956.

Coorg is the largest producer of Coffee in India. Also, it is one of the places with highest rainfall in India. The Kodagu district comprises different communities like Kodava, Tulu, Gowda and Moplah out of which the largest is the Kodava community, both economically and politically. The economy depends on agriculture, coffee plantations, forestry and tourism.

Misty hills, lush forest, tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views have made Coorg an unforgettable holiday destination. Madikeri is the heartland of Coorg region and was the seat of ruling dynasty. Places like Raja’s seat, Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, Omkareshwara Temple, Bylakuppe, Talacauvery and Dubare are the major attractions. The famous Cauvery River is originated in the hills of Coorg at Talacauvery.

Being a part of the Western Ghats, Coorg is rich in flora and fauna. It has three wildlife sanctuaries – the Talacauvery, Pushpagiri and Brahmagiri Sanctuaries, and one national park, the Nagarhole National Park. Some of the animal species found in these wildlife parks include the Asiatic elephant, tigers, leopards and wild boars.

Coorg is also famous for trekking activities with peaks like Thandiyandamole, Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri. Elephant rides at Dubare Elephant camp and white water rafting in Upper Barapole River are other interesting things to do in Madikeri.

Mangalore airport is the nearest airport which is 146 km from Madikeri. Mysore Junction and Mangalore Junction railway stations are nearest stations. Mangalore Junction Railway Station is about 131 km and Mysore Junction Railway station is about 117 km from Madikeri. KSRTC buses as well as private buses provide services to Madikeri from nearby cities like Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Ooty, etc.

Coorg has pleasant weather throughout the year, though October – June is the best time to visit Coorg. It usually takes about 1-2 full days to visit the important places in Coorg.